What is the cause of Lichen Planus? Any effective treatments?

Answer 1

Cause

The cause of lichen planus is not known, however there are cases of lichen planus-type rashes (known as lichenoid reactions) occurring as allergic reactions to medications for high blood pressure, heart disease and arthritis. These lichenoid reactions are referred to as lichenoid mucositis (of the mucosa) or dermatitis (of the skin). Lichen planus has been reported as a complication of chronic hepatitis C virus infection. It has been suggested that true lichen planus may respond to stress, where lesions may present on the mucosa or skin during times of stress in those with the disease. Lichen planus affects women more than men 3:2, and occurs most often in middle-aged adults. Lichen planus in children is rare.
Treatment

Currently there is no cure for lichen planus but there are certain types of medicines used to reduce the effects of the inflammation. Lichen planus may go into a dormant state after treatment. There are also reports that lichen planus can flare up years after it is considered cured.

Medicines used to treat lichen planus include:

* Oral and topical steroids.
* Oral retinoids
* immunosuppressant medications
* hydroxychloroquine
* tacrolimus
* dapsone

Lichen Planus Treatment with homeopathy: A large sample study of 800 cases by Dr Rajesh Shah, M.D. at Homoeopathy India Foundation, India, has documented encouraging results in the cases of dermal and oral Lichen Planus. Homeopathy treatment uses ultra minute doses of substances like gold salts(Aurum muriaticum), Mercury salts (Mecurius solubus, Mercurius corrosive), as well as some nosodes. Homeopathy is claimed to be working at the immune level controlling the auto-immune activity underlying the pathogenesis of Lichen Planus.
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Lichen planopilaris

Lichen Planopilaris is the specific name given to lichen planus on the scalp that may cause permanent, scarring alopecia. If left untreated the scarring will cause permanent hair loss. The Cicatricial Alopecia Research Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides support and resources for people with lichen planopilaris.

Answer 2

"Lichen planus is a relatively common skin disease that comes in episodes lasting months to years. The onset may be gradual or quick, but its cause, like many skin diseases, is unknown. It appears to be a reaction in response to more than one provoking factor. Theories include stress, genetics, infective (viral hepatitis C) and immunologic (autoimmune). There are also drugs that produce lichen planus-like allergic reactions to high blood pressure, heart disease, and arthritis medications. There is an inherited form also which is often more severe and can have a protracted course.

Lichen planus appears as shiny, flat-topped bumps that often have an angular shape. These bumps have a reddish-purplish color with a shiny cast due to a very fine scale. The disease can occur anywhere on the skin, but often favors the inside of the wrists and ankles, the lower legs, back, and neck. The mouth, genital region, hair and nails are affected in some individuals. Thick patches may occur, especially on the shins. Blisters may rarely occur. Bumps may appear in areas of trauma on some individuals. About 20 percent of the time lichen planus of the skin causes minimal symptoms and needs no treatment. However, in many cases the itching can be constant and intense.

This disease occurs most often in men and women between the ages of 30 and 70 years. It is uncommon in the very young and elderly. All racial groups seem susceptible to lichen planus.

There is no known cure for skin lichen planus, but treatment is often effective in relieving itching and improving the appearance of the rash until it goes away. Since every case of lichen planus is different, no one treatment does the job. Topical corticosteroids are very useful. Antihistamines may be prescribed to relieve itching. Extensive cases may require the use of oral corticosteroid (cortisone, prednisone) for a number of weeks. This usually shortens the duration of the outbreak. For severe cases powerful treatments include photo chemotherapy light treatment (PUVA), the retinoids drugs (Soriatane and Accutane), Neoral and Plaquenil."

As one who suffers from this disease in my mouth I sympathise with you. However when it really plays up and causes ulcers, I find Adcortadyl very effective.

Answer 3

My gugu had lichen planus and he was treated successfully by homeopathy. Homeopathy works for it. We went to Dr Rajesh Shah at Life Force in Mumbai. You can check some good homeopathic doctor in you city.

Answer 4

part of the herpes virus. be careful and don't eat yeast and sugar for a few days and see if it clears up. Not smoking or chewing tobacco is a must for the rest of your life IMHO. Be sure and brush twice a day and use listerine at least twice a day to help clean them. One thing I used to do, too, was apply a little salt to them. It burns like mad but got rid of them. Now that I watch my yeast and sugar intake, I don't have them anymore.

Answer 5

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Answer 6

hi i recommend that you stay out of the woods, if you must, use lettahosen & a nice pair of schuh oh buy the way don't forget your stick.:)